Gibson is a Pittsburgh native, so a trade there would represent a homecoming. Even if the Pens shouldn't be attempting anything resembling competitive hockey right now, it's difficult for them to bottom out while
Sidney Crosby is still around, so a Gibson trade could help remedy a major area of weakness.
The Tristan Jarry era is done after a roller coaster of a 2024-25 season that included him repeatedly allowing goals on the opening shot of a game, getting demoted to the AHL and, later, being waived and clearing.